Severe Winds in New Zealand Leave Thousands Without Power Amidst Mega Strike

Thu Oct 23 2025 15:45:45 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Widespread strong winds have resulted in power outages for nearly 90,000 households in New Zealand, as authorities cancel flights and issue emergency warnings. The adverse weather coincides with a significant public workers strike across the country.

Recent strong winds in New Zealand have generated gusts up to 155 km/h, affecting areas predominantly in the South Island, leaving around 90,000 homes without electricity and resulting in flight cancellations. Authorities had to lift rare red wind warnings but warned of additional weather challenges. Tragically, one person lost their life after being struck by a falling tree branch. The severe weather also coincides with a major public workers' strike, altering the plans of many involved.

Strong winds reaching speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have impacted New Zealand, leading to significant consequences including power outages for approximately 90,000 households and the cancellation of over 100 flights, according to local media.

The winds are predominantly affecting the South Island and parts of the North Island, prompting the country's meteorological service to issue rare red wind warnings—the highest level of alert—across key regions like Canterbury and Wellington. Fortunately, these warnings were lifted hours later.

Reports indicate that the strong winds have caused severe damage, including roofs being torn off buildings and numerous trees along with electricity poles being knocked down. Tragically, a man in Wellington was killed after being struck by a tree branch during the storm.

Authorities are advising residents to stay indoors, avoid any unnecessary travel, and prepare for potential additional power outages and communication interruptions. While the outages are primarily affecting the South Island, efforts to restore electricity are ongoing.

The incident involving the fatality and the intense weather have caused significant disruption, including canceled flights in and out of Wellington, as well as the closure of roads and public libraries.

In Canterbury, officials have declared a state of emergency in response to the continued severe weather conditions. Furthermore, heavy rainfall is forecast for the South Island, with rising water levels in the Waimakariri River posing a risk of overflow. Local officials are urging residents to prepare for possible evacuation.

This extreme weather coincides with a significant “mega strike” staged by tens of thousands of public workers—including teachers and doctors—protesting for improved pay and working conditions. Due to the winds, several planned outdoor rallies have been shifted indoors or canceled entirely.

In related news, parts of Australia are experiencing similarly severe weather patterns, characterised by a heatwave affecting the outback and leading to fire bans amid fears of potential bushfires.